The live service model is becoming increasingly common in the gaming world today. The aim is to provide a dynamic experience to players with constant updates, content additions and expansions. However, this model is not always successful and many projects close before they can gain a foothold in the market. Former Bioware executive Mike Laidlaw has reignited these discussions with his criticisms of live service games.
Dragon Age: The Veilguard and Live Service Discussions
The last game in the Dragon Age series Dragon Age: The Veilguard, initially had a live service-focused structure. However, during the development process, Bioware decided to return to a traditional single-player RPG experience. Despite this, EA CEO Andrew Wilson made a statement regarding the game's low sales figures, emphasizing that the series should focus more on shared world elements and interaction between players.
Wilson's statements were interpreted as the game could move towards live service elements in the future. This has caused concern among Dragon Age fans, and former Bioware executive Mike Laidlaw has also made a strong statement on the matter. Laidlaw stated that he would leave the company if the series were to move away from a single-player experience.
EA's Expectations and Unfulfilled Goals
Dragon Age: The Veilguard, reached approximately 1,5 million players in the first two months after its launch. However, EA announced that this figure was half of its expectations. In addition, the company reportedly lowered its revenue forecast for the current business year due to the underachievement of EA Sports FC 25.
These developments raise the possibility that EA could move towards a live service model, but are met with concern by industry experts and players who want to stick to the tradition of single-player RPGs. Whether Bioware can find a balance that will satisfy its audience is a matter of curiosity.
